Chief Executive of Mothercare Simon Calver resigns

Monday 24 February 2014 - Editorial Assistant

The CEO of Mothercare Simon Calver has resigned from the troubled baby equipment and clothing retailer with immediate effect.

Calver, who was hired in 2012 to help cut its UK stores from 311 to 200 by 2015 and boost its multi-channel offering, will leave at the end of March 2014.

The company praised former LoveFilm boss Calver’s “e-commerce expertise” after he oversaw an eBay shop opening, click-and-collect launch and a new web platform.

In a statement the company said: “Under his leadership the Company has made progress in implementing the Transformation and Growth plan.

“In particular, Simon Calver’s e-commerce expertise has allowed Mothercare to accelerate its development as a multi-channel retailer in the UK. We wish him well in the future.”

Mothercare has struggled in the wake of competition from discount supermarkets and online retailers and posted a profit warning in January. Group sales fell 6.1 per cent in the 12 week period to 4 January compared to the same period the year before.

Calver will receive a pay-off worth around £300,000 but receives no bonus payment in light of recent results.